The Nation Newspaper

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  • Glo supports Benin GSM Village carnival 2023

    Glo supports Benin GSM Village carnival 2023

    In keeping with its commitment to promoting the programmes and activities of the Great Benin GSM Village in Benin City, Edo State, Globacom recently sponsored the 2023 edition of the association’s carnival.

    The company has a five-year sponsorship deal with the GSM Village to provide financial and value-in-kind support to promote the association.

    The 2023 programme of activities for the carnival featured an Awareness Road Walk, Football Matches and an Award ceremony.

    Globacom has been supporting the association because of its strategic role in the provision of telecommunications support services for the people of Benin in particular and Edo state in generally. The Great GSM Village is the only recognized and registered association in Benin City, Edo State, hosting hundreds of ICT professionals involved in the sale and repairs of GSM products and devices also training of technicians.

    Read Also: Tsado wins first house in Glo Festival of Joy promo

    The company’s Regional Sales Manager, Mid-West, Simon Ithime, appreciated the cooperation and the commitment of the leadership and the entire GSM Village to the partnership with Globacom and encouraged them to keep it up.

    The football matches were played among the various complexes making up the GSM Village. Medals and trophies were presented to the various categories of winners of the football competition by Globacom.

    Chairman of the Great GSM Village, Benin, Hon Mohammed Kensington, commended the operator for its support and unwavering partnership over the past four years, and prayed that the company would always record giant strides.

  • Agric institute releases 200 crop varieties

    Agric institute releases 200 crop varieties

    Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) of Ahmadu Bello University has released more than 200 crop varieties to boost food in its 100 years of existence.

    These included 21 improved varieties of  cowpea 29 groundnut, 69 maize, 56 sorghum, four sunflower, 17 cotton, seven millet, five wheat, 12 tomato, three  soyabean, two sesame and oats.

    A statement issued by the Director, Public Affairs Directorate, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU), Auwalu Umar said the effort has been steady.

    According to him, the, national potential yield of maize has increased from less than 2tonne (t)/hectare (ha) to up to 9t/ha, sorghum from less than 1t/ha to 2.5t/ha, and cowpea 0.5t/ha to 2.7t/ha.

    The statement said some of the institute’s technologies have been put into use by farmers in West and Central Africa sub-regions. For instance, the statement said its groundnut and cowpea varieties are widely grown by farmers across Niger Republic, Mali, and Cameroon.

    He listed that  the institute’s other technologies include improved irrigation approaches for economising water in dry season production, as well as selection of suitable crops and their varieties for irrigation. This is beside the investment in research to develop new food products suitable for today’s consumer preferences.

    Having attained 100 years of existence as a foremost and formidable research institute, he said IAR  will focus on developing and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices that can enhance resilience to climate change.

    It said: “Research efforts can also be directed towards developing food and drought-tolerant crop varieties, sustainable management techniques and climate-resilient farming systems. The institute must embrace emerging digital technologies such as precision agriculture, remote sensing, and data analytics which can revolutionize farming practices. It can explore the use of these technologies to optimize resource use, improve crop monitoring and enhance decision-making for farmers. Equally, IAR can play a key role in strengthening agricultural value chains by focusing on post-harvest value chains by focusing on post-harvest management, processing and market linkages. And research can be conducted to develop efficient storage and processing techniques, promote value-added products and facilitate market access for farmers.”

    To celebrate its 100 years, the Director, Public Affairs Directorate, ABU, SAID  institute held  a public lecture, book launch, awards presentation ceremony. Highpoint of the celebrations was the awards presentation of a posthumous award to the Principal Private Secretary to the Premier of Northern Nigeria Sir Ahmadu Bello, Alhaji Hassan Lemu, for vehemently supporting the transfer or affiliation of all research institutes in the North to the newly established University of the North, later called Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

    Read Also: Stakeholders call for agric supports to curb food inflation

    Lemu argued that staff availability, teaching, and research needs of both the institute staff and students would be better taken care of. This was against the wish of the British colonialists who argued that the affiliation would be counterproductive by derailing the vision of the institute and creating bureaucratic bottleneck, as well as underfunding which could impair its smooth functions.

    The centenary lecture, ‘Agricultural Research, Technology and Innovation as Catalysts for National Development: Impact on Poverty, Food and Economy Security in Nigeria in the 21st Century”, was given by former Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, and Secretary to the Borno State Government, Malam Bukar Tijjani. The lecture dwelled on the pivotal role that the agricultural research, technology, and innovation played in Nigeria’s social, economic, and political landscape.

    The minister, particularly, acknowledged the central role played by IAR in alleviating poverty, especially in its original mandate in the Savannah ecology which covers Nigeria’s approximately 600,000 square kilometers out of the 924,000 square kilometers of total land area. He clearly pointed out that the institute had ensured food security, nutrition for all, and strengthened Nigeria’s economic growth and agricultural development at the early stages of its establishment and well into the 1970s.

    The Vice-Chancellor, ABU, Prof. Kabiru Bala, commended the IAR’s outgoing Executive Director, Prof. Muhammad Faguji Ishiyaku and other management staff of the institute for the remarkable organisation of the centenary celebrations in the face of scarcity of funds. Bala, who noted that the history of ABU would be incomplete without IAR, urged the Federal Government to adopt the IAR and ABU Faculty of Agriculture model of research and teaching by introducing the research and teaching component to all tertiary institutions, especially the universities, for effective learning by students.

  • Samsung: LTE tech still preponderant

    Samsung: LTE tech still preponderant

    • unveils budget-friendly Galaxy A05

    Original equipment manufacturer (OEM), Samsung Nigeria has said the Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology remains the leading technology common in the country.

    Product Manager at Samsung Nigeria, Stephen Okwara, who spoke during the unveiling of Galaxy A05, a new standard device for mid-range smartphones in Lagos, said the demand for LTE is higher, adding that the OEM is focused on meeting the demand of the people using the technology.

    He said available stats showed that the uptake of 5G in the country is still low relative to the population and number of phone users.

    According the NCC, 5G subscriptions have risen to 1.8 million 11 months after launch. Broadband penetration has surged from six per cent in 2015 to over 50 per cent as of July 2023. This has facilitated over 89.73 million subscriptions across 3G, 4G, and 5G networks.

    Speaking about device specifications, Okwara said: “Galaxy A05 with its amazing camera, colourful display, enhanced durability and facial recognition to name just a few of its best features, is certainly a device Android fans will love.”

    In addressing the current economic situation, Head of Marketing, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Chika Nnadozie, said the company has provided a pay small small scheme called Flex Pay which affords customers the opportunity to buy the device and pay between three and 12 months months’ instalment. He added that customers could also repair their damaged screens for as low as N9,000 twice within the limit of two years.

    Also speaking, Head of Retail for Mobile Division, Samsung Nigeria, Olaoluwa Olayers, said: “We are thrilled to introduce the Galaxy A05 to our fans in Nigeria.

    This is a device that embodies our commitment to delivering innovative technology to a wider audience. With its impressive display, powerful performance, and clear camera system, the Galaxy A05 sets a new benchmark for what users can expect from a mid-range smartphone.”

    Read Also: JUST IN: Fire guts popular Samsung Plaza in Abuja

    Okwara said the device, packed with cutting-edge features and a sleek design, the Samsung Galaxy A05 aims to redefine user expectations in its class.

    He said the device boasts a vibrant 6.7-inch HD+ display, delivering stunning visuals with vivid colours and crisp details, adding that it is powered by a robust Octa-core processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance. The device comes in multiple storage configurations, including an expandable option, catering to users with diverse storage needs.

    This combination, he stressed, allows the device users to capture moments with striking clarity and versatility. The front-facing camera, embedded within a subtle notch, enhances selfies and video calls, elevating the overall user experience.

    “One of the standout features of the Galaxy A05 is its long-lasting battery life. With a sizable battery capacity and optimized power management, users can confidently go through their day without worrying about running out of charge. Additionally, the device supports fast charging technology, providing a quick boost when needed.

    “Samsung has not only focused on performance but also on user convenience. The Galaxy A05 comes equipped with the latest One UI, offering an intuitive and streamlined user interface.

    “There’s no need to sacrifice camera quality when investing in a mid-range device like the Samsung Galaxy A05. It sports an outstanding 50mp main camera, expertly created to capture defined, detailed shots full of colour even in low light conditions.

    “Flaw Detection is another of Samsung’s on-board photography features, and a handy one at that. It automatically alerts you if the photo you’ve just taken has issues with blurring, backlighting or someone blinking – prompting you to snap another before the moment is over,” Samsung said.

    The Samsung Galaxy A05 is now available for purchase nationwide, marking a significant step forward in Samsung’s mission to make cutting-edge technology accessible to all.

    According to statista, an online data information platform, the number of 3G/4G mobile broadband subscriptions in Nigeria stood at 88.3 million in November 2022, a decrease compared to November 2021, when it added up to 76.3 million.

    According to NCC data, 0.83 per cent of the total mobile subscriptions (220.36 million) as of August 2023 were on 5G network.

  • Nigeria needs N21tr to close housing gap

    Nigeria needs N21tr to close housing gap

    Nigeria is currently estimated to be grappling with a staggering housing deficit of 28 million units requiring an astronomical N21 trillion to bridge the gap, a United States (US)-based real estate investment powerhouse, Peniel Investment and Development LLC, has said.

    Its founder, Mr. Ibukunoluwa Otinwa, a Nigerian, who spoke ahead of the US-Nigeria Real Estate Collaboration Conference and Exhibition, said recognising that the solution to the problem extends beyond government’s capacity the initiative is designed to empower citizens both at home and abroad to actively engage in resolving this critical issue.

    This event is slated to unfold in Texas, US, in August 2024.

    According to him, the forthcoming five-day conference, exhibition, and business dinner, will unite real estate investors, private investors, real estate developers, brokers, realtors, individuals, celebrities and government dignitaries from both nations.

    Mr. Otinwa hopes the event will generate about $500 million in transactions and investments, providing a catalyst for transformative change.

    Read Also: Jigawa approves N6b for 1,500 housing units

    The experience would include a comprehensive programme, featuring a conference with distinguished speakers from the US and Nigeria, three exhibitions, an engaging business dinner night, and illuminating site tours.

     He said: “The US-Nigeria Real Estate Collaboration Conference and Exhibition 2024 represents a beacon of hope in addressing Nigeria’s housing crisis through international cooperation and shared commitment.

     “Our mission statement at Peniel Investment and Development LLC is to provide good real estate investment and development to every human being with respect to their social and ethnic backgrounds.

     “On the other hand, our vision statement is to be a world-class real estate investment and development company by creating exclusive comfortable lifestyles for human beings, animals, and plants.

    “In terms of our core values, we see the customers’ satisfaction as our happiness; we focus on solutions; we believe in teamwork; and we target greatness through continuous improvement.”

  • 200 ton/day rice mill going live soon, says minister

    200 ton/day rice mill going live soon, says minister

    The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, has said the 200 metric tonnes per day (Mtpd) capacity rice mill situated in Suleja, Niger State, will soon be inaugurated.

    He disclosed this when he led Directors in the Ministry and the Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, Alwan Hassan, on a tour to the Mabeli Rice Mill in Suleja yesterday.

    The rice mill which is one of the 10 Integrated Rice Mills situated around the country is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

    Two of its kinds are situated in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)-Suleja and Gwagwalada, while the other eight are spread across the country.

    Kyari said the project would attract investors to come into the country, and by so doing, local production would be enhanced.

    “In the eight-point agenda of President Bola Tinubu, number one is food security and this project is one of them. What we always stress is not only on production but also processing.

    “In the past, we always rely on imported foods but what we have seen today is a rice fully grown in Nigeria and processed in Nigeria and can stand with other imported rice.

    “We are very happy we have our mill production and cultivation of what is being harvested.

    “We will try to complete and commission this one and the others; we will also look at it in such a way that it will not only be for rice production but also for staple foods.

    “This is to enhance food processing because food quality and food security is important and key to this administration.’’

    The minister said production was key to the sustainability of the project hence would work towards enhancing production in the mill.

    He, therefore, encouraged rice farmers to be prepared as they would be contacted to double their efforts on rice cultivation especially in the dry season.

    Also speaking, Hassan said the project was not completed because of the challenges of foreign exchange (forex) to pay for the balance of the project.

    The Managing Director, MV Agro Engineers Nigeria Ltd., Jamu  Dan’agundi, said the rice mill had a double capacity compared to the other mills across the country.

    Dan’agundi also explained that the mill with four sessions such as the intake, per boiling, milling and packaging sessions was put in place to enhance the nutritional value of rice.

    Read Also: Oil price rises on Red Sea attacks

    The minister later proceeded for a tour to the Nigerian Agricultural Technology Demonstration Centre in Bwari.

    At the centre, he expressed satisfaction at the level of work in the centre saying it would advance seed production and extension service for farmers.

    “We have seen the kind of advancement they have done especially in seed production.

    “We are impressed with the Gawal R1 rice that can produce up to eight tonnes per hectare so this is a very good development.

    “The Gawal R1 variety is sort after by our farmers so we implore them to give us more of the seed.

    “This is what the President has directed that we must produce as much rice in this dry season.

    “So, we are going to assiduously ramp up the production of rice and we are going to invest a lot of money into it,” he said.

    He, however, said the demonstration equipment would be handy for small holder farmers.

  • Nigerian oil shipments to dip in February

    Nigerian oil shipments to dip in February

    • Oil prices fall 3%

    Exports of four main Nigerian crude oil grades in February are set to average about 657,000 barrels per day (bpd), according to preliminary programmes, down slightly from the previous month.

    The scheduled loadings of Bonny Light, Bonga, Qua Iboe and Forcados crude oil streams stood at 792,000 bpd for January, according to Reuters calculations.

    Meanwhile, oil prices fell three per cent yesterday as more shipping companies said they were ready to transit the Red Sea route, easing concerns about supply disruptions as Middle Eastern tensions stay elevated.

    The more active Brent crude futures for March delivery were down $2.35, or three per cent, at $77.19. Brent futures for February delivery, which expire after Thursday’s settlement, fell 1.6per cent to $78.40 a barrel.

    U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell by $2.21 or three per cent to $71.90 a barrel. On Wednesday, oil prices dropped nearly two per cent as major shipping firms began returning to the Red Sea.

    Denmark’s Maersk will route almost all container vessels sailing between Asia and Europe through the Suez Canal from now, and divert only a handful around Africa, a Reuters breakdown of the group’s schedule showed.

    Read Also: Oil firm lifts Lagos community at Yuletide

    France’s CMA CGM is also increasing the number of vessels travelling through the Suez Canal, it said earlier in the week.

    “The perception is that the Red Sea route is reopening and will bring supply to market weeks faster,” Price Futures Group analyst Phil Flynn said.

    Major shipping companies stopped using Red Sea routes and the Suez Canal earlier this month after Yemen’s Houthi militant group began targeting vessels.

    At the same time, a U.S.-led coalition to quell tensions in the Red Sea has yet to yield the coordinated action that had been hoped for.

    A week after the launch of the maritime force, many allies do not want to be associated with it, partly reflecting the fissures created by the conflict in Gaza, which has seen the U.S. maintain firm support for Israel even as international criticism rises over its offensive.

    Oil prices found some support after the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a much larger-than-expected draw in U.S. crude oil inventories last week.

    U.S. crude stockpiles fell by 7.1 million barrels in the week ended Dec. 22, EIA data showed, while analysts polled by Reuters had expected a draw of 2.7 million barrels.

    Investors expect interest rate cuts in Europe and the U.S. in 2024, which could boost oil demand.

  • Group lauds FCCPC over BATN $110m fine

    Group lauds FCCPC over BATN $110m fine

    The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has commended the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) over its imposition of $110 million fine on British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) and its subsidiaries.

    The fine was imposed over serial violation of the nation’s laws including the National Tobacco Control Act, 2015.

    The FCCPC had in a statement released on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 disclosed that the Commission on August 28, 2020, opened an active investigation of BATN and its affiliates for which it “gathered, received and procured substantial evidence from forensic analysis of electronic communication and other information/data.”

    According to the commission, it imposed the fine on BATN, British American Tobacco Marketing (Nigeria) Limited (BATMN) and British American Tobacco (Holdings) Limited after the Commission accepted a written request for cooperation under its Cooperation/Assistance Framework (CAF) which provided for reduced penalties.

    In a statement issued in Lagos by its Media and Communication officer, Robert Egbe, CAPPA described the fine and other associated actions in the Consent Order as a milestone in the quest to make corporations accountable for their flagrant violations of the nation’s laws and statutes.

    CAPPA Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi said: “We applaud the FCPC for this precedent-setting action. We have consistently advocated that BAT and their ilk should be made to pay for their disregard for our laws and the promotion of an addictive, cancer-causing product to our youths and our people.

    “To us, this action sends strong warnings to other tobacco companies in Nigeria and other corporations behind products that compromise public health that justice may be slow in coming, but it will surely catch up”.

    CAPPA, however, expressed sadness that with the Consent Order, BAT and its officials have evaded criminal prosecution while details of their infractions are buried in opaque legalese

    “Nigerians need to know the full details of BAT crimes that made it willingly agree to dole out $110 million rather than face prosecution.

    Read Also: FCCPC slams $110m fine on BATN

    “No amount of fine can atone for actions that compromise public health and undermine the economies of nations. This is a slap on the wrist.

    “We, nonetheless, see this fine as a welcome step, in the right direction but we reiterate our call for the comprehensive probe of what BATN benefited from the Export Expansion Grant with a view to recouping such funds to our national purse,” Oluwafemi added.

    Oluwafemi also frowned at the section of the Consent Order that allows BAT to conduct a so-called tobacco control advocacy, saying it contradicts Section 38 of the National Tobacco Control Act 2015.

    The group emphasized that Section 38 of the NTC Act was unambiguous, on who handles Education, Communication, Training and Awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco products.

    It clearly states that “A person or entity working on behalf of or furthering the interest of the tobacco industry shall not be involved in any manner in youth, public education, or other initiatives to tobacco control or public health, including and funding of such activities.

    “Since this is a fine, at best the funding for advocacy should be administered through the Federal Ministry of Health and not through systems and structures with affiliations to BAT.”

  • Stanbic IBTC Bank customers get cash rewards

    Stanbic IBTC Bank customers get cash rewards

    Stanbic IBTC Bank, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has rewarded 77 customers with cash prizes in the first quarterly and third monthly draws of its Reward4Saving 3.0 promo. Both draws took place at the bank’s head office at Walter Carrington Crescent, Lagos.

    According to the bank, 70 customers won N100,000 each, while seven other customers received N1,000,000 each. The winners were selected across its seven business regions in Nigeria which are Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Southwest, Southeast, South-South, Northwest and North Central.

    The Reward4Saving promo, which is in its third season, remains a very attractive reward scheme for savings accounts and @ease wallet holders who bank with Stanbic IBTC Bank. The promo was introduced to encourage customers to save for rainy days, as customers are expected to maintain as little as N10,000 in their savings account for a minimum of 30 days, to qualify for the draw.

    Read Also: Stanbic IBTC Bank supports SMEs’ growth, development

    During the presentation of the cheques, Head, Middle Market and Youth Segment, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Layo Ilori-Olaogun, noted that the Reward4saving promo is just one way to express gratitude to our customers for choosing the bank as their preferred financial services partner.

     In her words, “This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a savings culture and helping customers to achieve their financial aspirations.”

    The Reward4saving 3.0 promo started in September 2023, and 210 people have been rewarded with N100,000 each. With nine more draws left until the end of season three, Stanbic IBTC Bank is set to reward 630 new and existing customers from seven business zones with N100,000 each; 21 customers with N1,000,000 each; and seven customers will be rewarded with N2,000,000 each in the grand finale.

    According to Layo, “We will continue to reward our customers for their loyalty and trust in our services. This promo will run until August 2024, and more winners will emerge in the monthly and quarterly draws.”

  • Ondo State will immortalise Akeredolu, says Aiyedatiwa

    Ondo State will immortalise Akeredolu, says Aiyedatiwa

    • Governor pays condolence visit to widow Betty
    • …meets Tinubu
    • Jostling for deputy governor begins
    • Commissioner quits
    • Makinde declares 3-day mourning

    We will immortalise the departed Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said yesterday.

    Aiyedatiwa spoke after paying a condolence visit to the private residence of his predecessor in Jericho, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

    He was hosted by Betty Akeredolu, widow of the former governor.

    Aiyedatiwa, who described Akeredolu as a courageous and fearless leader, also reaffirmed the promise he made at his inauguration on Wednesday, that he would sustain Akeredolu’s legacies.

    Aiyedatiwa said: “We are here as a government under my leadership as the governor of Ondo State on behalf of the people to pay a condolence visit to the immediate and extended family of our former governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, who passed on yesterday (Wednesday). We are here in his private home in Ibadan.

    “We have to do this because he has always been our leader, a courageous one for that matter; one who has governed Ondo State in the last six and half to seven years, with great courage and with many legacies he has left behind.

    “He is an exemplary leader, a courageous one, a leader that believed in fairness, equity and justice. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria who spoke on national issues so that adjustments and proper decisions can be made concerning any issue in Nigeria. So he’s known for that, as an activist.

    “Today, he’s no more and we have to pay him that respect by coming to the family to condole with them and we have done that. We pray that God will grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

    “And for those of us that he has left behind, to be able to emulate some of the values, the sterling qualities that he is known for so that we can keep on with the legacies that he has left behind.”

    At the residence, where Akeredolu spent the last days on earth, after his return from Germany on September 7, prayers were offered for the soul of the departed and members of the family.

    The departed governor’s brother, Pastor Kola Akeredolu, thanked the delegation for the thoughtful visit.

    The governor was accompanied by some top government officials and aides, among who were Commissioners, such as Bamidele Ademola-Olateju (Information and Orientation); Olayato Aribo (Agriculture); Chief of Staff Gbenga Ale and others.

    Aiyedatiwa, who left Akure barely 24 hours after his inauguration, proceeded to Lagos from Ibadan, where he met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He told reporters in Lagos that he visited the president to brief him on the situation of things in the state. He said the president, who spoke to him on Wednesday, to commiserate with the residents of Ondo State, encouraged him to carry on with the responsibilities.

    Yesterday, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde declared three days of mourning for Akeredolu. He directed that flags should fly at half mast.

    Commissioner quits

    The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Raimi Olayiwola Aminu, in his letter addressed to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Princess Oladunni Odu, said his resignation took effect from December 28.

    He said his decision to quit was anchored on his conscience, following the death of his former boss.

    “I sincerely thank our dear Arakunrin and the good people of the state for the opportunity to serve in his cabinet as Senior Special Assistant on Lands and Infrastructure, Special Adviser on Lands, Works and Infrastructure and Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing.”

    Three Akeredolu’s aides resigned on Wednesday before Aiyedatiwa’s inauguration.

    Race for deputy governor begins

    Two members of the State Executive Council are jostling for the position of deputy governor, sources said yesterday.

    They hinted that Aiyedatiwa will pick a loyalist, who stuck to him during the tussle that preceded Akeredolu’s death.

    Among those believed to be eyeing the number two position are Ale and Commissioner of Energy and Water Resources, Rasaq Obe.

    Ale hails from Owo (Ondo North Senatorial District), Akeredolu’s hometown while Obe hails from Ifedore in Ondo Central Senatorial District.

    Some allies of the governor said Ale might be favoured because of his closeness to Aiyedatiwa, in addition to being from Owo.

    Aiyedatiwa visits Tinubu in Lagos

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday urged Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take charge and mobilise the people to move the Sunshine State.

    Aiyedatiwa, who spoke with reporters after visiting the President at his Ikoyo, Lagos residence, said he used the opportunity to update him on recent developments in his state.

    Asked what President Tinubu’s response was during their meeting, Aiyedatiwa said: “It was a paradox, a mixed feeling, he commiserated with me, even though he put a call through yesterday to condole with us in Ondo State, through me, he still did the same today, and also wished me well that there can never be a vacuum, one era ends, another one begins, but still within same administration and that’s the first time such a thing will be happening in Ondo State, to have a transition within an administration, due to the demise of the governor.

    “So, it’s basically an advice and to also encourage me to take charge and mobilise everybody as one administration that we are known for; to pull everybody together and see how we can move the state forward.”

    On his mission in Lagos:  Aiyedatiwa said: “I’m here to see Mr. President, to further brief him on the events that happened in our state; the loss of our governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, and to also let him know that I have just been sworn in, because there can never be a vacuum, as the governor of Ondo State, being his former deputy.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa: Battle to elect Ondo deputy governor begins

    “To also thank him for standing by us during the critical moment in our state; it’s no longer news what happened in the last six months in Ondo State that was in the news.

    “Ondo State was practically in the news almost every day in the last six months, but all that has been put to rest now, and he stood by us as the President of the country.

    “So, I’m here to just thank him for being a father-figure to the state, all his advice and the development. Right now and what we are looking forward to do in the days ahead.”

  • Six governors sign N2.25tr 2024 budgets into law

    Six governors sign N2.25tr 2024 budgets into law

    • ·Abia: N567.2b; Jigawa: N298.14b; Ekiti: N159.5b; Bayelsa: N489.4b; Bauchi: N300b; Kano N437b

    Six governors yesterday signed the budgets of their states into law.

    They are: Dr. Alex Otti (Abia) – N567.2 billion; Umar Namadi (Jigawa) – N298.140 billion; Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) – N159.5 billion; Duoye Diri (Bayelsa) – N489.4 billion; Bala Mohammed (Bauchi) – N300 billion; and Kabir Yusuf (Kano) – N437 billion.

    The Houses of Assembly had passed the 2024 Appropriation Bills and sent them to the governors for assent.

    In Umuahia, the Abia State capital, Governor Otti said the 2024 budget would take the state to greater heights.

    He said: “I want to say that this is a budget that would take Abia State out of underdevelopment to development. The journey of a thousand miles starts with one step. This is the first step.

    “Once we get things right – and we know we will get them right – the next few years will be Uhuru for all our people, those living here and those who come from here and our friends.”

    In Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji signed the N159.5 billion 2024 Appropriation Bill into law with an assurance that it would be fully implemented for the development of the state.

    The budget, called: Budget of Sustainable Growth and Development, was presented to the governor by Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye at the Exco Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti.

    Fifty-six per cent of the budget is for Recurrent Expenditure and 44 per cent for Capital Expenditure.

    In Dutse, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi hailed the House of Assembly for scrutinising and passing the N298.140 billion budget on time.

    “I want urge the Assembly to use its oversight functions to ensure that the budget is used as planned and approved,” he said.

    Read Also: How deputies who emerged governors fared

    In Yenagoa, Governor Diri expressed optimism that a careful implementation of the N489,443,632,374 budget would improve the living conditions of the people and address rural and urban poverty.

    He said the 2024 Appropriation Bill, called: Budget of Sustainable and Shared Prosperity, represented an increase of N8.450 billion over the outgoing year’s N480,993,632,369 budget.

    Also, in Bauchi, Governor Mohammed signed the N300 billion 2024 Appropriation Bill, tagged: Budget of Consolidation and Renewed Focus, into law yesterday.

    The governor assured the House of Assembly that the budget would be fully implemented.

    Hailing the lawmakers, he said: “I must also add that the honourable members have had no break since the day we presented the budget till the final consideration was made,” he said.

    In Kano, Governor Yusuf assured the people that the budget would be well implemented in accordance with global best practices of public financial management.

    The Appropriation Bill, tagged: Budget of Restoration and Transformation, comprised 64 per cent Capital Expenditure and 36 per cent Recurrent Expenditure.

    A statement by the Director General, Media and Publicity in the Governor’s Office, Mr. Bature Dawakin Tofa, said the governor promised that the budget would be well utilised for the benefit of the populace.

    “The total budget estimate that has been ratified today amounts to N437.3 billion with 64 per cent allocated to capital projects totaling N379,835,94,351, and recurrent expenditure totaling N456,503,218,483.73,” Yusuf said.